The world may be a stage, but the closest drama school is 150 miles away from Cornwall, so a leading Cornish college, in partnership with the Federation of Drama Schools (FDS), is bringing the UK’s leading drama schools to the county for a day.

Many aspiring students face challenges when considering specialist higher education performing arts training, as visiting several open days, particularly in London, can be extremely expensive. 

Speaking on National Careers Week, Kit Savage, deputy team lead in performing arts at Truro and Penwith College said: “Cornwall is a peninsula where the average wage is more than 20 per cent lower than the national average: with large pockets of deprivation making a visit for an open day very expensive and prohibitive for many due to geographical and economic factors. 

“This event is therefore incredibly important for the aspiring theatre makers, doers and technicians of the future from Cornwall.”

The UK boasts a vast array of live and recorded arts activity and there is an equally huge range of career opportunities in the industry, both in the spotlight and behind the scenes.

The collaborative outreach project between Truro and Penwith College and some of the UK’s leading drama schools and conservatories will allow students to learn about auditions, the range of courses available, and life as a student at a higher education performing arts school.

Sean McNamara, chair of the Federation of Drama Schools is aware of the difficulties facing students from rural areas: “Visiting several open days, particularly in London, can be extremely expensive, and navigating the process can be daunting,” he said.  

“We want to play our part in providing opportunities that will support future generations into the next stage of their development to achieve their ambitions of sustainable and rewarding careers.” 

There are three different pathways to choose from at the point of booking – acting, musical theatre and technical/production arts.

The free one-day event is being held at Truro and Penwith College on March 12. There is a morning and afternoon session, and booking for groups and individuals is essential as it’s expected to be fully booked.

Representatives from leading UK Drama Schools will be attending. The final details will be confirmed prior to the event and are subject to change.

More information can e found on the Truro and Penwith College website at www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/event.